The alimony statute was amended in September 2014. The statute is not retroactive, but no longer have “permanent alimony” in New Jersey. The criteria for obtaining alimony has changed. While not exhaustive, the court must look at:
- the ages of the parties at the time of the marriage or civil union
- the ages at the time of the alimony award;
- the degree and duration of the dependency of one party on the other party during the marriage or civil union
- whether a spouse or partner has a chronic illness or unusual health circumstance;
- whether a spouse or partner has given up a career or a career opportunity or otherwise supported the career of the other spouse or partner;
- whether a spouse or partner has received a disproportionate share of the marital estate;
- the impact of the marriage or civil union on either party’s ability to become self-supporting, including but not limited to either party’s responsibility as primary caretaker of a child
- tax considerations of either party
- any other factors or circumstances that the court deems equitable, relevant and material
If you have any questions or concerns regarding alimony, contact a family law attorney who can explain the criteria to you and protect your legal rights. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Hunziker, Jones & Sweeney are experienced in handling family law cases, including alimony matters in New Jersey. Call (973) 256-0456 for a consultation.
